Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they are chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap in the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to insert an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your home.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Finally, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the least expensive. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw here a template for the flap for cats. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. The most check here important things you'll require are the cat check here flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However read more should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.
After you've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole click here of your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.